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UK bans West Bank settlement goods
The UK is targeting settlement-linked trade and services while maintaining broader trade relations with Israel.
What happened
Britain announced an import ban on goods made in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and sanctions on people and companies supporting their expansion. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband presented the policy as an effort to protect a two-state solution. France and Canada announced similar action. Israel said it would close the British consulate in Jerusalem.
Numbers
- 1,234 homesE1 project housing units offered — Bidding opened in August
- 6–9 monthsLegislation expected to take effect — Immediate steps were also announced
- 30 licencesArms export licences remain suspended — Existing UK measure
Questions
- Which services face sanctions?
- The measures target companies and individuals supplying construction, infrastructure, financing, real estate or advertising for settlement expansion as well.
- Why did Britain act now?
- Miliband linked the decision to recent settlement expansion and violence, saying both threaten the prospect of a Palestinian state.
- How large is the economic effect?
- The settlements export a small volume, largely agricultural goods, so the immediate economic effect is expected to be limited.
- Does this end broader UK-Israel trade?
- No. Miliband said Israel would remain an important trading partner; the measures target settlements and support for their expansion.
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The catch
Coverage does not specify which products or companies will be covered, or how enforcement will work.
Legislation is still being prepared.